Listening with others with understanding and empathy


"Wisdom is the reward for a lifetime of listening"

While participating in a group activity during chemistry class, listening with others with understanding and empathy played a large role in this class project. During this project, we were assigned to follow detailed instructions, conduct the experiment, record our observations, and more importantly, be safe while doing it all. The reason I say this is because we were entrusted with the ability to use potentially dangerous equipment such as a bunsin burner. By listening to the whole group give suggestions and cooperating as a team, we followed through with this experiment in communication. Despite the problems we had, such as difficulties with bunsen burners, and the size and color of the flame, never had a social disagreement or problem. However, we adapted to each situation as the team and together solved the problem efficiently and safely. While we were conducting the experiment, we each had our own duty and responsibilty, which required more communication and listening to make it work. Despite the noise from the neighboring groups, we still remained to hear each other and proceed on with the experiment in connection. The picture as seen below is my group (Wendy, Leonard, and I with the bunsen burner and materials in the background).



Photo_on_2010-12-01_at_11.54_#2.jpg
I learned from this project that listening is a major part of group work, and without it there can be complications and difficulties. Listening and understanding not only comes in projects in chemistry class, but also comes all throughout life. While working together as a team, it is necessary to listen to others and be respectful to everyone no matter what. During this group project, my group was extra careful and worked together as a complete team by listening, understanding, and cooperating. And along the way, we even got a chance to share a couple laughs and smiles.